Would You Adopt A Baby From Craigslist?

As you probably know, you can find just about anything on Craigslist, including used cameras, couches, or cars. And today, a growing number of couples are using the site to find a baby!

For example: We read about a Minnesota couple that said theyíd been trying to have a baby for years. But when fertility medication didnít work, they turned to Craigslist. And six weeks after posting an ad, saying they were looking to adopt, they got a call from a mother-to-be named Tammy, and ended up adopting her baby.

Experts say the concept isnít new. Because people have been doing the same thing through classified ads in newspapers for years. Craigslist just offers a faster way to do it, because you can instantly connect with potential birth mothers around the world.

But obviously, adopting a baby online isnít the same as buying a used couch! So, hereís what you should know:

Itís only legal in a handful of states. Because online adoptions are not meant to replace normal adoptions. In fact, experts say once couples connect with potential birth mothers online, they still need support from an adoption agency and an attorney.

Craigslist has the potential for SCAMS. Just like anything else related to the Internet. In fact, there have been many cases of couples being contacted by women who claim to be pregnant, who turn out to be cons trying to steal their money! Itís why adoption expert Barb Sternberg says that when somebody starts asking for money in the first conversation online, thatís a red flag.

There are other options aside from Craigslist. For example, Adoptimist.com is a site that specializes in connecting hopeful adoptive parents with potential birth mothers. And many adoptive couples are now setting up their own websites, complete with toll-free phone numbers for potential birth mothers to call.